The Women’s Football Alliance is pleased to announce that the Santa Fe Dukes have officially signed on to play in the WFA for the 2017 season. Based in Santa Fe, New Mexico, the Dukes will compete in the Mountain West Division as members of Division III for 2017.
“We are excited to support more growth of women’s football in New Mexico” stated WFA Commissioner Lisa King.
Established in 2014, the Dukes’ name is an homage to their strong fanbase beyond Santa Fe — all the way down to the Albuquerque area, also known as “Duke City.” The team was a member of the 8-woman New Mexico Adult Football League’s women’s division for its inaugural season in 2015, finishing the regular season tied for second place with a record of 4-4.
However, the team shined during the playoffs when it defeating the Amarillo Lady Punishers 12-6 and won the inaugural NMAFL Championship. The following season was much tougher, finishing at 2-5 but still reaching the postseason where they would lose to the eventual champion Roswell Destroyers by a score of 54-6. After the league folded, the Dukes opted to meet the next big challenge ahead: Joining the WFA.
The Dukes are happy to be part of the world’s top league, in particular the new in-state rivalry with La Muerte de Las Cruces and the chance to compete on a bigger stage in hopes of winning the Division III National Championship. Likewise, the WFA is excited to have a second team in the Land of Enchantment and eagerly anticipates the opportunities to come in the Southwest, specifically for the league’s future growth in 2018 and beyond.
For more information about the Dukes, check them out on-line:
Facebook: www.facebook.com/sfDukes/
Team Website: www.santafedukes.com
